Since 2013, CFY has facilitated over $1,150,000 in scholarships through the Richard O. Jacobson (ROJ) Postsecondary Scholarship Program, named for Mr. Jacobson who was instrumental in the growth of CFY and unwavering in his support of area youth. Through this program, CFY matches community sponsors to aspiring Pinellas County High School seniors seeking to further their education through local and national colleges, universities (except St. Petersburg College), trade, and vocational schools. The annual application period is from November 15 – January 23 of each year.

The application must be submitted using the form on the CFY website, with only rare exceptions made for students with extenuating circumstances in which their access to a computer and internet are impeded. CFY will provided the  ROJ Points and Pointers document, which is a list of tips for applicants to access. Also provided will be ROJ Scholarship Sponsor Narrative for additional Information for the applicants as why CFY donors and partners are participating.   These will serve as a list of suggestions to help the applicant during their submittal process and will be posted on the CFY website as part of the application section.  If you have or are on a CFY Sponsored Program please refer to the Program List. 

In addition to the application and essay, applicants have the option to complete the Need Based Qualification Form. While this form is not required, it is encouraged for completion as qualifying students* will receive an automatic point toward their overall score during the selection process. 

*Qualifying families are determined based on the Income Eligibility. Each form will require review as not all applicants who complete the form will necessarily qualify. 

*Needs Based applicants will be verified in accordance with the school’s administration and FL Department of Children and Families.  

Building on CFY’s mission of elevating youth through access to impactful programming, the ROJ Postsecondary Scholarship Program extends our impact to many of the same young people who started their development in CFY sponsored programs, now on to their next great life chapter.